“Our government strongly supports partnerships with organizations like the Neil Squire Society to improve the literacy and vocational skills that disabled Canadians require to help them get jobs and build better futures,” said Senator Martin. “In today’s economic environment, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate in the job market.”

“This funding is instrumental in our effort to reach out across Canada,” said Dr. Gary Birch, Executive Director of the Neil Squire Society. “In particular, this program will enhance our capacity to reach Canadians with disabilities, some of whom are the most marginalized people in our society. We are extremely grateful to the Government of Canada for helping us to develop this program.”

Literacy and essential skills are key to ensuring that Canadians can fully participate and succeed in the workforce. The Government of Canada’s Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (new window) works with partners such as provincial and territorial governments, employers and community organizations to provide Canadians with the tools and supports they need to maximize opportunities for themselves, their families and their communities.

The Government of Canada created the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills as a centre of expertise for helping to increase the literacy and essential skills of adult Canadians. The Office focuses on improving the literacy and essential skills of adults to help them participate more fully in the workplace, the community and family life.

While Canada currently faces economic uncertainty, skills shortages remain a significant challenge. The Government of Canada is helping individuals develop the skills they need so they can get jobs and build better futures. To make this happen, the Government is investing $36 million this year in the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills.